For SweetBerries, thankfulness is more than a feeling—it is woven into the story of how we came to be a part of the Gainesville community.
When we opened SweetBerries on NW 13th Street in 2013, we did so with the tremendous support of our father and brother, both of whom are now deceased. As two sisters taking a leap of faith and opening a restaurant in Gainesville, we were fortunate to have them beside us every step of the way. Both University of Florida graduates, they believed in us and provided financial, professional and, perhaps most importantly, moral support. Their encouragement helped make SweetBerries possible, and their love and influence remain a meaningful part of our journey.
We are also deeply thankful for Aaron Green, who sold us his family property and has continued to look out for us over the years. His support and watchful eye have meant so much as SweetBerries has grown and become part of the Gainesville community.
Then there is our SweetBerries family—our staff. Over the years, many wonderful people have walked through our doors. Some have moved on to new chapters, while others are still hanging in there with us! Each person has contributed something special to SweetBerries, and we are grateful for the dedication, hard work and friendship they have shared. Our staff truly feels like family.
And, of course, our greatest thanks go to our customers.
The people who have walked through our doors since 2013 have given us far more than their business. They have shared meals with us, celebrated special moments with us, recommended us to friends and family, and continued to come back year after year. Many of our customers have become part of the SweetBerries family, and their loyalty is something we never take for granted.
We are also incredibly thankful for Gainesville itself—for the opportunities this city has afforded us and for the chance to grow a small, family-owned business here. Gainesville has given us a place to build our dream, create jobs, form lasting relationships and become part of a community we are proud to call home.
As we reflect on thankfulness this season, we are reminded that SweetBerries has never been built by one or two people alone. It has been built by family, friends, employees, customers and a Gainesville community that has welcomed us, supported us and given us the opportunity to grow.
For all of that—and for the memories still to come—we are truly, deeply and sweetly thankful.